BOISE, Idaho — The Ada County Board of Commissioners has released it's Fiscal Year 2021 proposed balanced budget. The budget is set at $284,731,212, which is down $3.3 million from FY 2020.
The Board began the budget process with a "firm commitment to providing as much relief to all taxpayers while not affecting critically important services for growing communities," according to a news release. While overall numbers are down, the budget does have some high demand projects and positions that will improve critical services to area residents.
Some of those projects include:
- Funding to staff a second driver's license location
- Two deputies to patrol east Ada County [Harris Ranch/Lucky Peak area]
- Improved communication for Police, Fire, and EMS in Rural Ada County
- Improvement to the Drug Treatment/Mental health Court
- Parking and Pathway Improvements at Barber Park
- The return of issuance of Passports
- Funding for the Master's Facility Plan to address some of the most pressing capital infrastructure needs
"Providing taxpayer relief, especially during these challenging times, was paramount in planning for our budget. Because we worked hard alongside our fellow elected officials, we were able to collectively find ways to tighten our belts, and to do more with less while not sacrificing services to the public. FY21 will see no increase in taxes, however, we will be taking the new construction roll so that growth helps pay for itself. I am confident we will maintain the excellent level of service the public has come to expect from Ada County. I sincerely hope the tax relief we are able to provide will be helpful as we all navigate these unprecedented times." Commissioner Kendra Kenyon, Chair.
The Board was able to hear and consider public comments and feedback on the budget before signing off on expenditures. If you want to submit your feedback on the budget, email budget@adacounty.id.gov. You can view the Ada County Budget using the interactive tool here.
"COVID-19 dramatically changed many things in 2020 as we planned and analyzed Ada County's FY 2021 budget. One thing it did not change was my commitment to being fiscally responsible. Ada County is able to have a zero increase 2021 budget with minimal pain, and without a reduction in services, because Medicaid expansion continues to yield significant benefits to Ada County taxpayers." Diana Lachiondo, Ada County Commissioner.
The Board will set the FY 2021 budget on July 28 in an open business meeting. The adoption of the final budget resolution is set for August 11.
